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Call (781) 784-2322

Can I operate my business as a DBA?

Can you simply do business under your own name or a trade name ("doing business as" or DBA") without forming a legal entity?

You can, and many do, but it is not advisable in the long run.  First, as a dba you have no liability protection.  All debts and liabilities of your business are also your personal debts and liabilities. 

Second, many banks will not open a business account without LLC or incorporation papers.  You also may not be able to take advantage of certain verified listings for marketing purposes if you can't show your legal identity.

Finally, as long as you are a dba, the "business" is really just a collection of things you personally own that you are using in your business.   If you want to pass it along to a family member after you die, or if someday you want to sell it, this is much easier if there is a single asset that is the LLC or the S Corporation.

Learn more here about incorporating your business in Massachusetts.

Need Help With Your Business Entity?

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Can I operate my business as a DBA?

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​Sharon MA 02067

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  • Home
  • Estate Planning
    • Massachusetts Wills and Trusts
    • Why You Need an Estate Plan
    • Massachusetts Estate Tax
    • Inheritance Tax
    • How to Make an Estate Plan
  • Employment Law Solutions
    • Employment Law MA
    • Employment Termination
    • Sexual Harassment at Work >
      • Sexual Harassment in a Small Business
      • Sexual Harassment and Non Disclosure Agreements
      • Sexual Harassment and Remote Work
    • Wage and Hour Laws
    • Independent Contractor Law
    • Non Compete Agreements >
      • Are non competes enforceable
      • Massachusetts Non Compete Act
      • Pre 2018 Massachusetts Non Competes
    • Equal Pay Act
  • Business Law Solutions
    • Small Business Law
    • Business Contract Basics
    • Civil Suit Defense
    • Legal Issues for Start Ups
    • Trademark Basics
    • How to Incorporate
    • Sale of Business
  • Attorneys
    • Emily Smith-Lee >
      • 2018 Lawyer of the Year
    • Jenna Ordway
    • Rebecca Rogers
    • Stowell Simonton
    • Elijah Bresley
  • Reviews
  • Blog
  • Contact